Your roof faces various challenges when the leaves fall and winter sets in. If left unchecked, freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can turn minor issues into major problems. The best way to protect your roof is to understand the common winter challenges and prepare for them in advance. Here are some winter roofing problems to watch out for.

Winter Roofing Problems

Roof Leaks

Leaks are one of the biggest concerns during winter. Snow and ice put extra weight on your roof, and when melting snow seeps under shingles or tiles, it can cause water to leak into your home. If that water freezes inside walls or ceilings again, it can expand and lead to even more damage. To avoid this, inspect your roof before winter for missing shingles, cracked tiles, or worn-out flashing, and fix any issues early.

Ice Dams

Ice dams are a common winter roofing problem caused by snow melting on your roof and refreezing at the edges. These dams block water from draining properly, and as the process repeats, the ice can grow and worsen the problem. Preventing ice dams is as simple as improving your attic’s ventilation. A well-ventilated attic stays cooler, reducing the chance of snow melting and refreezing.

Frozen Gutters

Gutters can freeze when they fill with snow and ice, stopping water from draining correctly. This can cause water to back up under shingles, leading to leaks or ice dams. Frozen gutters can also crack or pull away from your home, causing further damage. To prevent this, clean out leaves and debris in the fall or install a heating cable system to keep your gutters warm.

Wind Damage

Winter storms often bring high winds that can loosen or break shingles, especially if your roof is already in poor condition. Wind can also let snow and ice get under the shingles, lifting them further and causing even more damage. Inspect your roof for weak spots before winter and address any issues to protect against wind damage.

Icicles on Gutters

Icicles may look like a winter wonderland, but they can signal trouble. They often form from snow melting and refreezing at the eaves, which indicates poor attic insulation. Icicles can damage water and pose a danger to anyone outside if they fall. Use a snow rake to clear snow and ice from your gutters while waiting to improve your attic insulation.

Keep Your Roof Safe This Winter with Kesting Construction

These are just a few problems your roof might face during the colder months. Take time to inspect your roof now, as winter weather can worsen even minor damage. We’re here for you if you need help getting your roof ready. Schedule an inspection today with Kesting Construction to keep your roof in great shape this winter.